Newborn Hearing Test
OAE, ASSR and Speech Audiometry
We offer a comprehensive range of audiological services, including Otoacoustic Emissions Screening (OAE), Auditory Steady State Responses (ASSR), and Speech Audiometry Testing.
These audiological services are essential for diagnosing and managing hearing disorders in newborns. They help tailor treatment plans and interventions to address specific hearing challenges and improve overall communication and quality of life.
Here’s a brief overview of these services
What it is: Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) Screening is a non-invasive hearing test that measures sounds generated by the inner ear in response to external stimuli. It assesses the function of the hair cells in the cochlea.
How it works: A small probe is placed in the ear canal, and sounds are played. The probe records the emissions produced by the inner ear in response to these sounds, indicating the health of the cochlear hair cells.
When to use: OAE screening is commonly used in newborn hearing screenings and for quick, reliable assessments of hearing function, especially in children and infants.
What it is: Auditory Steady State Responses (ASSR) is an objective test that assesses hearing sensitivity by measuring the brain’s response to modulated auditory stimuli at specific frequencies.
How it works: Electrodes are placed on the scalp, and the patient is exposed to modulated sounds. The brain’s responses are recorded and analyzed, providing information about hearing thresholds at different frequencies.
When to use: ASSR is beneficial for assessing hearing in patients who may not respond well to conventional tests, such as young children or individuals with cognitive impairments.
What it is: Speech Audiometry Test evaluates a person’s ability to hear and understand speech. It measures speech reception thresholds, speech discrimination scores, and other aspects of speech understanding.
How it works: Patients listen to recorded or live speech at different volumes and repeat what they hear. The audiologist analyzes their responses to assess their ability to perceive and understand speech.
When to use: Speech Audiometry is used to determine a patient’s ability to hear speech clearly, aiding in the diagnosis of hearing impairments and determining the most effective rehabilitation strategies.
What it is: Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) is an objective test that evaluates the electrical activity in the auditory nerve and brainstem in response to sound stimuli. It helps diagnose hearing disorders and neurological issues.
How it works: Electrodes are placed on the scalp, and the patient is exposed to auditory stimuli. The resulting electrical responses are recorded and analyzed to assess the auditory nerve and brainstem function.
When to use: ABR is utilized to diagnose hearing disorders, especially in patients who cannot undergo traditional behavioral hearing tests, such as infants or individuals with developmental challenges.
